Your baby’s cute gummy smile won’t last forever, and they will begin cutting teeth before you know it. Infants don't need teeth cleaning right away, but preparing for it will set your baby up for a lifetime of good oral health. Take note of a few common questions and answers regarding infant oral care to prepare yourself for that first tooth.

4 Helpful FAQ for Baby Teeth Cleaning

When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?

When that first tooth pokes out from your baby’s gums, you should start a regimen to keep it clean. Teething can begin in babies at three months old, but the first tooth may not fully emerge until they are six months old. The lower two front teeth tend to be the first to make their entrance.

How should I clean my baby’s teeth?

Cleaning their gums by wiping them with a soft damp washcloth. When those first teeth arise, use a small soft toothbrush. Tiny amounts of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) can be used to gently clean an infant’s developing teeth at least twice a day, especially after feeding time.

When can my child start using their toothbrush?

Parents brush their child’s teeth until they can hold the toothbrush on their own, but they will still need adult supervision. Make sure your child doesn’t swallow toothpaste and encourage them to spit and rinse after thorough teeth cleaning to avoid ingesting potentially harmful chemicals. Kids typically can start brushing without guidance when they are six to eight years old.

How can I help prevent cavities?

The best way to keep your infant healthy is to avoid giving them sweet or acidic snacks and drinks. Even beverages claiming ‘no added sugar’ contain sweeteners and natural sugars that can cause tooth decay. Try keeping them away from sweets, so they don’t develop unhealthy cravings that could lead to health issues later in life. Fill their sippy cups with water and provide healthy snacks, like carrots and milk, to encourage developing teeth. If you believe that they might have developed a cavity, schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist.

Your child’s first dental visit is essential, so trust the professionals at La Crosse pediatric Dentistry in La Crosse, WI, for the care they would provide their own family. Specializing in pediatric dental care, this knowledgeable team gives families a stress-free environment for a range of dental procedures, including teeth cleaning, sealants, and emergency dental care. Visit their website for more information or call for an appointment at (608) 782-4054.